Bipolar disorder is one of the most misunderstoodmental healthconditions out there.
Keep reading to learn 14 key facts about bipolar disorder that everyone should know.
These shifts are referred to as mood episodes, according to theNational Institute of Mental Health(NIMH).
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There are two main types of episodes: manic episodes and depressive episodes.
(Hence why bipolar disorder used to be referred to as manic depression.)
Experiencingmaniadoesnt necessarily mean a person is running around feeling invincible and happy, says Dr. Malaspina.
It can seem like useful, goal-oriented energy, Dr. Malaspina says.
you could have too much belief in yourself…[and] very poor judgment, says Dr. Malaspina.
This can contribute to behavior like having unprotected sex orinvesting all your moneyin a business venture, she says.
This grandiose thinking can also escalate into delusion.
When someone has mania, they really need to be under a doctors care, Dr. Malaspina says.
These mixed episodes involve the high energy and activity of mania and the hopelessness and despair of depression.
Then theres a condition called cyclothymia, which resembles a less severe form of bipolar disorder.
People with untreated cyclothymia are at an increased risk of eventually developing bipolar disorder, though.
Mania typically lasts for at least a week.
However, Theres not really a fixed range, says Dr. Malaspina.
Experts have yet to pinpoint which genes may be involved here and to what extent.
Same goes for brain structure and functioning; theres a lot thats still to be determined.
Whats clearer is that bipolar disorder does tend to run in families, according to theNIMH.
(Remember, mania can sometimes feel productive instead of like a problem that needs treatment.)
However, younger teenagers and children can develop it, too.
Specialized child psychiatrists can be helpful in these cases.
There are several kinds of medication that have been shown to be effective for bipolar disorder in various ways.
Some people will also benefit from antidepressants to manage the lower moods associated with bipolar disorder.
However, antidepressantshave the potential to trigger manic episodes, Dr. Malaspina says.
Some people benefit from short-term use of antianxiety medications as well.
Additionally, certain bipolar disorder medications such as antiepilepsy drugsmay lessen the efficacy of birth control pills.
Talk to your doctor if youre taking medications for bipolar disorder and trying toavoid an unintended pregnancy.
There is no doubt that living with bipolar disorder presents its challenges.
But its equally true that with proper treatment, people can achieve stability and happiness.
Its something you get help for as if you had diabetes, Dr. Malaspina says.
With care and time, people can do much, much better.
